Beast
on Goodreads (7,042)
What’s inside...
Orasmyn, the prince of Persia and heir to the throne, makes a foolish choice during the Feast of Sacrifices that results in a fairy's punishment: he is turned into a beast. This curse can only be undone by the love of a woman. Orasmyn's journey takes him through the Middle East and France as he struggles to learn the way of the beast while preserving the mind of the man. He searches for a woman courageous enough to love him and for his own redemption.
Age
11-12
Length
272 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Prince Orasmyn
Belle'S Father
Belle
Discussion points
How does the transformation of the main character in 'Beast' reflect changes that people go through in real life?
What emotions did you feel when reading about the character's struggles and triumphs?
In what ways do the settings in the book impact the story? Can you think of a place that affects your mood?
What lessons can be learned from the way characters in the book face challenges?
If you could speak to the main character, what advice or words of encouragement would you give him?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own thoughts about the book's themes and asking your child for their perspective.
Encourage empathy by discussing how the character’s feelings and experiences might relate to your child’s own life.
Use examples from the book to talk about overcoming personal challenges and the importance of perseverance.
Show interest in your child’s opinions, and ask them to elaborate on their thoughts to deepen the discussion.
Compliment your child’s insights, and connect them to everyday life to help reinforce the messages from the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Beast,' the protagonist, a Persian prince turned into a beast, learns to understand and empathize with the struggles of others, contrasting his former princely life.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by learning to understand friends or classmates who might be different from them, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: The story showcases the beast's journey of self-discovery and acceptance, demonstrating how he overcomes his despair and isolation.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to face challenges confidently and to use difficult situations as opportunities for personal growth.
Example Lesson: The Power of Inner Beauty
Explanation: The book emphasizes that true beauty comes from within—highlighting qualities such as kindness, bravery, and wisdom over physical appearance.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value their own and others' inner qualities, promoting self-esteem and reducing superficial judgments.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Love
Explanation: Through his profound love for Belle, the beast experiences significant transformation, illustrating that love can be a powerful force for change.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of loving relationships and how caring deeply for others can lead to positive changes in one’s own behavior and attitudes.
Example Lesson: Courage to Be True to Oneself
Explanation: Despite his fears of rejection, the beast ultimately reveals his true identity to Belle. This act of bravery leads to acceptance and happiness.
Real-World Application: It inspires children to be honest about who they are and to express their true selves, emphasizing that authenticity leads to genuine connections.